
International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis)
Secular, Founded 1964
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Accreditations
Languages
The International Community School of Addis Ababa is a non-profit, internationally accredited IB World School serving students from Early Years 3 through Grade 12. It provides a personalized, mission-driven education to a diverse community representing more than 80 nationalities.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school is a mission-driven, non-profit institution focused on wellness, global citizenship, and innovative, impactful learning experiences. It emphasizes an inclusive community that values diversity, social-emotional wellbeing, and the contributions of all members. The school believes that all students can learn at high levels and encourages them to be their best in service to Africa and the world.
Programmes
As an IB Continuum School, ICS offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP). The curriculum is designed to provide academic rigor and breadth, with the MYP covering Grades 6–10 and the DP and CP pathways available for students in Grades 11–12. These programmes are supported by expert faculty and a focus on inquiry-based, personalized learning.
Student support
Learning support
The school is committed to being responsibly inclusive and continuously evaluates its capacity to support exceptional learners. It is a member of the Special Education Network and Inclusion Association (SENIA), reflecting its dedication to providing appropriate academic supports and environments for students with diverse learning needs. Families are encouraged to contact the admissions office early to discuss specific service requirements.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis) offer?
- International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis) offers IB PYP, IB MYP and IB Diploma.
- What ages does International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis) teach?
- International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis) enrolls students aged 3 to 18.
- What accreditations does International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis) hold?
- International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis) holds accreditations including IB, CIS and Middle States Association.
- Is International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis) co-educational?
- International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis) is a co-ed school.
- Where is International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis) located?
- International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS Addis) is an international school in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
The school welcomes applications from families of all nationalities, with a particular focus on the international community in Addis Ababa. The admissions process involves a review of previous school records, academic testing, and potential interviews or observations to ensure the school can meet the applicant's educational needs. Applications for the next school year typically open on 1 November, and the school maintains specific procedures for local applicants within Ethiopia and international applicants moving from abroad.
Calendar
The school operates on an academic calendar that typically begins in August. Families can access updated community calendars for specific school years, including key dates and events, through the school's website. The calendar system allows for digital subscription to ensure parents stay informed about school activities and holidays.
Facilities
About the campus
The school is situated on a 15-acre campus in Addis Ababa, featuring state-of-the-art, flexible learning environments and modern classrooms. Campus facilities include a 25-meter swimming pool, a FIFA-certified natural grass pitch, additional sports fields, and dedicated studios for music, drama, and visual arts. The grounds also incorporate expansive green spaces, a student-run garden, and secure, accessible areas for student interaction and play.
Co-curriculars
ICS offers a robust extracurricular program with over 200 activities designed to enhance the student experience beyond the classroom. These include athletics, performing and visual arts, and a variety of student-led service clubs. Students have opportunities to participate in local and international travel for competitions and service projects, fostering skill development and community engagement.

Earl ChamberlinHead of SchoolEarl Chamberlin serves as the Head of School at ICS Addis, focusing on wellness, global citizenship, and innovative learning experiences. He emphasizes the school's commitment to an inclusive, mission-driven community and the International Baccalaureate framework.
Yonas BerheDeputy Head of School for OperationsYonas Berhe serves as the Deputy Head of School for Operations, overseeing the administrative and operational functions of the school.
Dr. Christopher CowherdExecutive Director of Learning and InnovationDr. Christopher Cowherd is the Executive Director of Learning and Innovation, responsible for leading the school's academic and innovative initiatives.
Colin PowellElementary School PrincipalColin Powell serves as the Elementary School Principal.
Yodit HizekielUpper Elementary School Deputy PrincipalYodit Hizekiel is the Upper Elementary School Deputy Principal.
Mei-Lyn FreemanLower Elementary School Deputy PrincipalMei-Lyn Freeman serves as the Lower Elementary School Deputy Principal.
Kristine AdelsboellMiddle School PrincipalKristine Adelsboell is the Middle School Principal.
Ken FordeMiddle School Deputy PrincipalKen Forde serves as the Middle School Deputy Principal.
Tina SantilliHigh School PrincipalTina Santilli is the High School Principal.
Stephen MelvilleHigh School Deputy PrincipalStephen Melville serves as the High School Deputy Principal.
Jessica FortinDirector of AdmissionsJessica Fortin is the Director of Admissions.
Areyam WorknehDirector of Human ResourcesAreyam Workneh serves as the Director of Human Resources.
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IB PYP
CIS
Middle States Association